The textbook, in table 11.3, provides a summary of many meta-analytic studies that have been conducted looking at the differences between men and women. Summarize the trends of this research

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Answer: A number of conclusions can be drawn from this long list of studies. The student may review the points made in the textbook or may have some thoughts of their own regarding trends. It is obvious that many studies have looked at the difference between males in females using a plethora of dependent variables. It is a very important research area a large number of scientists. Overall, it is quite remarkable how few differences have proven to be significant. The most consistent differences, with meaningful effect sizes, have been in the areas of physical attributes, such as height; some aspects of sexuality, such as attitudes towards casual sex; and qualities desired in a potential mate. Negative results, in which there is no evidence of differences, are quite telling. There are no differences in general intelligence, and even differences in verbal ability are trivial.

There are some differences in the nature of mental disorders experienced by each group, with women having higher rates of mood disorders and men having higher rates of drug abuse, autism, learning disorders, and sexual disorders.

There are many other comparisons that can be drawn from this chapter. A good answer will have an overview and a couple of examples.